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Wellington-based hospitality worker Littoria Paku said she had many experiences of racism at work. Photo / Supplied

As a young waitress at the time Paku said she did not feel confident enough to call them out. Like Mia, who said she didn't feel she could speak out in the moment, she also tried to minimise it to herself.

"But it does affect you. It is degrading, and makes you feel embarrassed to be Māori, especially when you know who you are and where you come from."

Edwards said customers needed to treat wait staff like they would like to be treated at work, and employers put in place policies and training so staff felt safe in their jobs.

She encouraged anybody who needed advice to contact hospitality workers rights group Raise The Bar.

Mia's mother Kiri Turketo said the company James Hardie had invited Mia and the family to meet the man responsible for the racist comments, but they were deciding whether to take up the company's offer.

One of the restaurant owners told the Herald a James Hardie representative had sent them a written apology. They had also worked with the company to identify the man who made the comments and his partner, and they had been banned from the restaurant.

"We are a really multicultural workplace and fully support Mia, that she has a voice on this, and want to do all we can to stand up to everyday racism."

Mia Griffiths said the comments made her feel "ashamed". Photo / Supplied

Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon said he encouraged Mia to lay a complaint.

"It is very important when people are abused they should not feel alone and must speak out and report it. Systemic and structural racism is not on.

"We stand with Mia and her family, and encourage her to be strong and give nothing to racism."